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Dogs may love a high-energy game of fetch, but according to experts in canine behaviour, one of the most enriching parts of a walk is simply stopping to have a sniff.
What is a sniff walk?
With about 300 million scent receptors in their noses – compared to a modest 5 million in ours – dogs experience the world very differently to us. Enter the “sniffari”: a dog-led outing that encourages your pooch to sniff and explore at its own pace.
Animal behaviour expert Dr Kate Mornement says that sniffing is one of the most rewarding behaviours a dog can engage in.
“Dogs experience the world primarily through their noses, so if you give them the opportunity to sniff and investigate their environment, you’re letting them do what they’re biologically wired to do,” she says.
Sniffing also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
“Sniffing during a walk is like reading the local newspaper,” adds Dr Kate. “Dogs process an enormous amount of information, such as who’s been there and if another animal is stressed or healthy. That mental engagement is tiring in a good way.”
Spring is sniffing season
Spring brings an explosion of new smells, from blooming flowers and fresh grass to wildlife activity – and it’s a peak time for relaxed sniff stops!
“When you take your dog for a walk, it’s their walk, not yours. Let them enjoy the journey,” says Jenn Gambell from Australian Canine Scent Work.
She advises against rushing dogs from smell to smell, recommending you go at a pace that suits your pup.
“If you need your dog to move on, call them back positively rather than dragging them away,” she says. “Even a shorter walk can be very satisfying for dogs if they’ve had the opportunity to use their nose. Sniffing can build confidence, improve focus and strengthen the bond between dog and owner.”
Adding scent games can make walks even more engaging for dogs. Toss a handful of treats on the ground for them to sniff out, hide a toy near a tree for them to find, or walk a different route to introduce new smells.
Safety first!
While sniffari walks encourage exploration, safety still comes first. Keep dogs on a lead in unfamiliar areas, watch for toxic plants, baits and stagnant water, and always clean up after your dog if they poop.
And if you’re finding your local walks limited, check out Sniffspace (sniffspace.com.au). It lets you rent a secure space where your dog can safely sniff, roam and explore freely.
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